PSY FPX 6100 Assessment 1 Factors of Learning

Student Name

Capella University

PSY FPX 6100 Introduction to Educational Psychology

Prof. Name:

Date

Profile

Anna Smith, a 10-year-old from the Philippines, demonstrates exceptional academic abilities. Raised in a devout Roman Catholic family, her parents communicate exclusively in Filipino, which helps cultivate a strong cultural and religious identity. Living with extended family, Anna adheres to a dress code dictated by her faith, emphasizing modesty and formality in her clothing. Despite her academic successes, Anna exhibits shyness and hesitance to engage with peers, often preferring solitary activities such as reading.

Specialist View: Erickson

At this stage, Anna aligns with Erikson’s theory of industry versus inferiority, where children assess their worth by comparing themselves to their peers. As Anna navigates this developmental phase, her self-consciousness regarding perceived differences from her peers becomes evident. Erickson highlights the importance of fostering self-confidence during this period, as success encompasses not only academic achievements but also social integration and acceptance.

Specialist View: Piaget

According to Piaget’s developmental theory, children’s intelligence evolves with age, involving both knowledge acquisition and cognitive maturation. Anna currently resides within the concrete operational stage, showcasing growing autonomy in her thought processes and emotional expression. However, she occasionally struggles with hypothetical scenarios, indicating cognitive overload. Encouraging Anna to tackle problems incrementally can help alleviate feelings of overwhelm and nurture the critical thinking skills necessary for real-world challenges.

Specialist View: Vygotsky

Vygotsky emphasizes the significance of social interactions in cognitive development, particularly through the zone of proximal development. Anna shows a willingness to accept guidance from adults and peers, utilizing cultural and familial influences to enhance her learning experiences. By engaging in cooperative dialogue, Anna internalizes societal norms and values, which shape her intellectual growth within communal contexts.

Similarities/Differences

While Erickson, Piaget, and Vygotsky converge on the importance of psychological development throughout the lifespan, differences arise in their focus on individual versus socio-cultural factors. Erickson and Piaget outline sequential stages of development, whereas Vygotsky prioritizes cultural mediation in learning processes. Nonetheless, all theories emphasize the multifaceted nature of human development, encompassing cognitive, social, and emotional dimensions.

Conclusion

Anna exemplifies resilience in the face of social challenges, supported by her academic strengths and familial backing. By integrating insights from Erickson, Piaget, and Vygotsky, educators can tailor interventions to enhance Anna’s self-esteem and social integration. With continued guidance and encouragement, Anna is well-positioned to overcome her inhibitions and thrive in both academic and social realms.

References

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Gable, S. L., & Haidt, J. (2005). What (and why) is positive psychology? Review of General Psychology, 9(2), 103–110.

Gauvain, M. G., & Cole, M. (1994). Ecological models of human development. In International Encyclopedia of Education (pp. 37-43). Oxford, England: Freeman.

PSY FPX 6100 Assessment 1 Factors of Learning

Groth-Marnat. (2009). A measure of everyday ability. In Handbook of Psychological. Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons.

Leary, M. R., & Baumeister, R. F. (2000). The nature and function of self-esteem: Sociometer theory. In Zanna, M. P. (Ed.), Advances in Experimental Social Psychology (Vol. 32, pp. 1–62). San Diego, CA: Academic Press.

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Mooney, C. G. (2013). Theories of childhood: An introduction to Dewey, Montessori, Erikson, Piaget, and Vygotsky. St. Paul, MN: Redleaf Press.

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Piaget, J. (1971). Genetic epistemology. New York: W. W. Norton & Company.